Diabetic nerve pain, also known as diabetic neuropathy, is caused by nerve damage as a result of high blood sugar. Other symptoms include tingling or numbness in the extremities, muscle weakness and an unsteady gait. The American Diabetes Association recommends exercise to manage blood glucose and blood pressure; however, the symptoms of diabetic nerve pain may make exercise difficult and dangerous, especially if the disorder affects your balance. Simple modifications can make exercise easier -- and safer -- for people with diabetic nerve pain. Always consult your physician before starting any exercise program.
Get in the Water
The National Diabetes Information Clearing house recommends swimming for people with diabetic nerve pain. Those new to exercise should start by swimming several laps the width of the swimming pool. As your become stronger, swim several laps the length of the pool. Other water exercises include water walking, water running and water aerobics. Water walking and jogging are both done in waist-deep water while water aerobics are done in chest-deep water. Deep water aerobics are done in pools at least 10 feet deep with flotation devices.
Take a Seat
Seated exercises take weight off the feet and reduce the risk of falling. Seated options include gym weight machines, such as the leg and chest press, cycling and diabetic-specific chair exercises. Diabetic-specific chair aerobics use swift arm and leg movements to raise the heart rate. Diabetic-specific calisthenics use gravity-based arm and leg lifts to strengthen the muscles. Additionally, seated, kneeling and reclining yoga poses, reduce the risk of falling, improve strength and flexibility, and increase blood flow to the muscles.
Wear Proper Footwear
Because diabetic neuropathy can cause foot numbness and slow wound healing, the National Diabetes Information Clearing house recommends wearing shoes, even in the water. Shoes, specially designed for water exercise, protect the feet and provide traction on slippery pool bottoms. All shoes should be well-fitting with adequate room to move your toes. Wear socks to wick away moisture and prevent friction against the inside of your shoe. FamilyDoctor.org also recommends checking your feet after exercise, to make sure there are no blisters or sores.
